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Summit of the Americas: Transparency International calls for rescue of Lima anti-corruption commitments

As the IX Summit of the Americas begins in Los Angeles, Transparency International and its 19 chapters in the Americas released an open letter urging governments to address the region’s struggles with authoritarianism, human rights, and corruption.

At the 2018 Summit, 35 heads of state pledged to prioritise a forward-thinking anti-corruption agenda by signing onto the Lima Commitment. Instead, in the last four years, aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen further deterioration of democracy and loss of fundamental rights.

The letter acknowledges recent challenges and calls for governments to support efforts in: democratic governance; transparency and human rights; political financing; public contracting; and illicit financial flows. For the full list of recommendations, see the letter.

Delia Ferreira-Rubio, chair of Transparency International, said:

“This 9th Summit of the Americas marks a critical moment for the region. Governments and civil society must take joint action to reverse the trend of democratic decline and build a better future, free of corruption and guaranteeing human rights for all people of the Americas, especially our most vulnerable.

“We call on all governments across the Americas to implement the Lima Commitment. Corruption does not respect borders, and we all must work together to promote these integral values and policies.”

Notes to editors